Devil's Gulch

(By Stix Douglas)

As the wind gusted it was blowing large drops of water into my face and leaving spots on my safety glasses making it even more difficult to see. My two Wise Guy buddies and I had been riding on an extended two lane alternative/scenic route to the Mecca of motorcycling (Sturgis). We were just coming to the end of our first full day of riding. It was nearly dusk and we were desperately in need of a place to spend the night. Hopefully one that was dry.

We were like a posse riding hard all day, and now trying to stay ahead of a storm. The rain had been falling on us for the previous 20 mile and although we had heard several reports on the radio, we knew the worst was heading in our direction. We desperately wanted to avoid it. It was right upon us. We were in need of shelter or a place to hide out from it and to be able to bunk for the night.

Our original plans were to spend the night at a Palisades State Park, which is located in the most southeastern corner of South Dakota only a short distance from the Minnesota state line. When we arrived there we had been informed by the Park Ranger that there were no vacancies and it was suggested to us to continue on Hwy 11 to Split Rock Park a few miles further and on the northern side of the town of Garretson near a place called Devils Gulch.

Following the directions we were given we turned off the Hwy onto a small paved road that led us to the entrance of Split Rock Park. Just before we turned into the park we noticed another sign for Devil's Gulch that continued on up ahead. We had been on many an expedition before but for the time being we were just looking to get a roof over our heads.


The single lane road leading into the park was nothing more than a path of loose pee gravel that made it extremely difficult to ride on with a motorcycle.

At the end was a cul-de-sac where we parked under several large Cedar trees. They reminded me a lot of the ones back home in Missouri. At least now we were able to remain out of the rain for the most part while we unloaded the gear from our bikes and set up our bed rows for the night under a pavilion nearby.

A short distance away you could see and hear the delightful sound of a waterfall from a dam as it rushed over a stair step of Cut Granite Rock.



That night the water sounds were like listening to a lullaby for us weary and tired travelers. We were worn from the days hard ridden miles as we slept soundly almost unscaved from the fierce storm as it passed through during the night..

The next morning we headed back into the small town of Garretson. There was no diner, but it did have a small local grocery store that had a place for customers to buy breakfast that came complete with tables and chairs for its customers to enjoy their meal.
As we drank coffee an ate breakfast we struck up conversations with the locals. Trading stories and founding out that it was other Missourians Frank and Jesse James to be exact that made the area a novelty with the Historical site, which was now a Municipal State Park, called Devil's Gulch.
Marked on the road Atlas and forever in the history books from an incident that happened there dating back to September 7th 1876. When we finished we thanked everyone for their hospitality and the story and we decided to have a look at this Devils Gulch for ourselves.

According to the documentation the facts were that during that time the notorious outlaws Frank & Jesse James had been involved with the Youngers in a Bank Robbery in Northfield, Minnesota, that had gone dreadfully bad. Several of the Youngers had been killed along with some townsfolk.



Many people were angered by the killings and went after Jesse and his brother. The two had separated near Split Rock Creek. Frank heading alongside the creek to the north while Jesse headed south taking the posse with him in hot pursuit

According to Frank in an interview in 1870 many years after the fact and without any other way of knowing other than by his account of the events Jesse had either trained his horse prior or forced it to jump a 18 to 20 foot Gourge. . Leaving the posse behind, unable and or unwilling to attempt to do the same.


I had a hard time understanding the signifigance and was captured by the magic of this location. Its hard to put into words realizing we were at the place where this had actually happened. A place where myth meets legend.

Was this planned or was it just plain luck of the draw? We may never know for certain but in either case I felt more in touch with my Missouri roots and a alittle more comradely with my outlaw side after having been there.
This was where there was more to the story than what mets the eye.

As my Wise Guy buddies and I pulled out on our Harleys heading to our mecca that morning I couldn't help but know in my mind that I'll always remember this place. The fact we mirrored trying to excape and were from Missouri makes it sort of ironic. We could have passed it up and missed it but I am so much more impressed that we took the time, and investigated it for ourselves.

It wasn't just another night out on the road to Sturgis, with my Wise Guy buddies. Instead it was a tremendous experience. It felt as if we were a part of history and it was another notch in our travels on the journey to our ultimate destination.
We often collect the memories and remember the thrills it is that makes us Legends and that's why we continue on....

You can find out more by clicking up the words " Devil's Gulch " on your search engine of your computer about this special place in South Dakota and or I suggest you go to these web sites for more information. Its one way to know, but its nothing like actually having been there.

http://www.trailsandgrasslands.org/gulch.html
http://www.uwsp.edu/geo/projects/geoweb/participants/dutch/VTrips/DevilsGulchSD.HTM
http://www.outdoorplaces.com/Destination/secret/garretson/index.htm

Ride For Sight Kicks Off Riding Season

By S.Sydney & Stix Douglas


The first Ride for Sight Poker Run was held in September 2006. It brought out a total of 66 bikes and raised over $1600.00 after expenses. Larry Mc Clellan of the House Springs Lions Club stated that amount of money could allow nearly 300 children to have their eyes tested for early diagnosis of preventable blindness.
On Sunday April 22, 2007 the sun shone brightly from nearly a cloudless blue sky. Nature finally conceded to warmer temperatures allowing the Second Annual Ride For Sight Poker Run to be the official start for the riding season. It drew out many from their winter hibernation to take part in this worthy cause.

It is never too late to go for a ride on a bike. House Springs Lions Club volunteer, Marcie Strieder celebrated her 80th birthday at the Ride for Sight by taking her first with Lion David Jones.
The House Springs Lions Club hosted the event, with help from two other Lions Clubs, the Am Vets post #48, and a mass of willing volunteers. One can only imagine the amount of teamwork, thought, and effort that went into the planning and execution in making this a truly incredible event.

Approximately 104 bikes and a total of 170 participants registered and paid the $20.00 admission. The price included coffee and doughnuts served before the start of the ride, a complimentary Ride For Sight t-shirt, and a wristband that enabled them to enjoy all the festivities offered after the ride was over.
House Springs Lions Club Chairperson David Jones started the Poker Run on time and kept it on schedule throughout the approximately 125 mile ride. It was a virtually uninterrupted, escorted motorcycle excursion that took the group through some of the most scenic areas of Jefferson, Washington, Franklin and St. Louis counties. The road conditions were exceptional over each of the six State Highways and the one Interstate.

With the use of only one Byrnes Mill police officer at the first intersection, the vast quantity of people involved in the volunteer staff out did themselves. They were able to get the large number of bikes through the countless intersections and over the entire distance safely and kept the riding participants together as a complete and intact group, making it a thoroughly enjoyable ride.

As acting Road Captain, David Jones led a vast and diverse crew of the area’s bikers. They varied in age as much as they did in the different machines they rode. Nearly every type of two wheeled bikes and a few three wheeled trikes attended, with almost every motorcycle manufacturer represented. But the variety did not stop there; many were individual bikers as well as numerous group riders. Members included at least three different Harley Owners Groups, the St Louis County Metro Chapter #3 of the Blue Knights, Am Vets from Post # 1, and The Statesmen.

The first of the three stops was near the halfway point, in Desoto at the AMVETS Post #48. Adjutant Dave Maupin informed me they are currently the largest AMVET Post in the State of Missouri. They were enthusiastic about being involved with the Ride For Sight and wish to assist in next year’s ride. While there everyone signed their guest register. They did an excellent job of serving refreshments to our large and thirsty group quickly.

The next stop was the Hillsboro Community Center where the Hillsboro Lions Club provided a luncheon. Everyone had time to relax and sit down and enjoy their meal out of the sun under the pavilion, while they socialized catching up on what each had been up to during the winter months.

Soon everyone was traveling to the Fenton Lions Club, near Murphy Flats, the last stop before returning to House Springs Lions Club.

When the group returned in the late afternoon from the poker run they were greeted by the tantalising aroma of the freshly prepared meal that consisted of a Barbequed Pork Steak Dinner with all the trimmings. And their choice of mixed drinks, beer, diet or regular sodas and bottled water.

Shortly after the meal was over the band “SHILOH” provided the music as they played many of the top 40 country and classic rock tunes for the audience’s enjoyment.

After Shiloh had performed its first set it was time to give out the prizes. There were cash prizes for the top three poker hands of $125.00, $75.00, and $50.00 respectively, with two of the winners generously donating their winnings back. However, nothing could compare with the numerous attendance prizes that were provided.

Sarah Calhoun who participated with her husband in the Poker Run went home after the ride and returned with their truck afterward bringing her Seeing Eye dog, Tico that she received, from one of the Lions Clubs of Missouri, several years ago. Showing where some of the monies raised goes first hand as she helped answer questions about the program.

The Ride For Sight Poker Run continues to grow, with almost 40 more bikes participating in the ride over last year. This year’s Ride For Sight raised over $2,500.00; with a tentative date that is set for Saturday April 26th, 2008 for next year. It is one annual charity event that I will be looking forward to participating in again with hopes many of you will join me next year and help to double the number of bikes attending. Please make a note on your calendar now to make this a part of your annual events.

Special thanks go to area retailers and businesses for their generosity in providing this year’s attendance prizes, to the Ride sponsors for their support and to the many volunteers who graciously donated their time to make this event so successful.
Shown here are a few of the many volunteers that graciously donated their time and effort to make this event so successful and enjoyable for the many participants.



Ride for Sight is part of a non-profit organization that is dedicated to help those that are sight impaired. Monies raised goes for early diagnosis of preventable blindness, as well as training and placement of Seeing Eye dogs.

More information can be found on the Lions Club web site http://www.housespringslions.com/ including photos of the event. Additional information on Sight First II the organization and what it does can be found at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/index.php

STIX 1976 (The Bi Centennial)

By STIX DOUGLAS

Could this motorcycle be the equivalent of a Harley Davidson Edsel? I seriously doubt it, and I would be one to know.
The year 1976 was a very special for a lot of people and for a lot of very different reasons. Besides being the year that I graduated the nation was busy with marketing products for its 200 year celebrations, it could also be a year before most of you were ever born and thus the reason for this to be explained and the need to clear up some misconceptions of motorcycle history.

There were many items marketed that were considered patriotic products as well as a certain amount of collectables, throughout the year. It was also during the period when AMF owned Harley Davidson, and it wanted to get involved in marketing its own rare collectable with the Bi-Centennial.

Many refer to the time that AMF ran things as the “Dark Ages” of Harley Davidson. It’s a shame that it also seems the majority also believes that nothing good ever came out of its ownership. It’s hard to understand why, although it still remains a highly disputed and controversial topic as well as a very difficult and touchy subject to deal with especially from the motor company. AMF motorcycles were shun and thought of as the least valued for one reason because of the company’s business strategy at that time.

AMF was interested in quantity and in doing so the quality of its product suffered substancually and done ill reputable damage to its brand in the process. Often when you would see a Harley Davidson motorcycle on the side of the road, it would be a fair assumption it was broke down. Design and in most cases modifications of private ingenuity contributed to the subliminal connection that Harley Davidson motorcycles were inferior.

During the AMF years, records weren’t completed or kept up with as they had been with the family owned company. This was another of Harley Davidson’s “Official” positions.
Things got easier for Harley once the AMF period was over, by avoiding the inevitable confrontation and side step any further arguments, allowed them to get on with the business at hand which was its recovery.
What makes the Bi Centennial stand out from any other Harleys were two items not found on other bikes at the time. First was its “Special paint” that was used. Up until this time no other Harley had been considered or adorned with any different or unusual paint. By adding a large grain Metal Flake into the clear coat it gave the base a slightly diverse look especially in the sun.
The importance and significance of any 1976's AMF Harleys was the true symbolism that this was the first time that an Eagle was incorporated into and with the Harley Bar & Shield and , where it has remained ever since. It was also the first and only time the year of the motorcycle was decorated with a emblem showing its year. Also making it noteworthy.


Then there were the highly controversial Decals. Many claim that it was the artist PETTER MAX who designed the decals that adorn the Bi Centennial gas tanks. Because of AMF's inability to pursue copyrights the decision was made to not have them reissued or duplicated.
The importance of this fact alone makes a difference. During many motorcycle restorations it is common for them to be repainted and for decals and emblems to be copyrighted and available. But this is the one critical stipulation and exception for the Bi Centennial. Otherwise the Bi Centennial would lose its original status and no longer be a true Bi-Centennial. Instead it would just be a repainted shovelhead.

So technically it is impossible to repaint a true Bicentennial. Would this make the bike more valued over another that had been painted? Perhaps but it also divides the traditionalist from the pretenders.

While at motorcycle bike shows many goof and quickly walk away from an AMF Shovelhead. A few from the old school take a look and talk or make a comment. Some even share their own experience on how this bike reminds them of times gone by or one of theirs.


I supppose it could be said that I bought the Bi Centennial as an impulse purchase. It reminded me of my very first Harley which was also a 1976. Since then I have bought and still own two other 1976 models, a 1976 XL Sportser and of course this FLH Bi-Centennial.



Having owned a '76 prior I figured I had a general idea as to what to expect. Instead I got another lesson in life. I had no idea of what I was in for. The first clue should have raised a red flag when the previous owner claimed he was only selling it because he was pressed for Cash. He easily departed from it at what I considered a reasonable price. But he would have had to of already known that the oil pump was out of it, and made no indication and said nothing to me about it.


As with any and all older bikes there is usually a horror story or two that comes along with it. This bike would be no exception, especially one this old. As luck would have it disasters have a way of happening. Even if you escape one there is usually another waiting in the wings that has a way of tracking you down and finding you.


As fate would have it while having it parked in the basement while I was repairing the damages to the oil pump another set of unexpected change of events took place. The basement flooded, leaving 14 inches of water in it. The devastation was just too much and the repairs on the Bi Centennial would have to be shelved for a later time.


Several years passed, and a few people looking to buy a Harleys asked about the bike. They showed some interest in it, but with it apart and non running it seemed to them as a dreadfully insignificant disappointment.

I refused to allow it to go quietly and become a scraped collection of parts. There had to be something done with it. It was just plain wrong for a bike of this caliper to be hidden and ridiculed I made the decision to do what had to be done. It took a lot of effort to get the bike up and out from the dark and dreary dungeon, where it had remained at for nearly seven years. It had to be towed into the daylight..

A lot or consideration was given to the restoration of this project before it was taken to Butch Clayton. A well respected Harley Mechanic. Having his experience, and expertise, insured me that the Bi-Centennial was in the best and most capable hands. I felt it was important to restore the Bi Centennial to as near original and genuine as humanly possible. We both agreed that if it were worth refurbishing it would have to done right. The motor would have to be completely torn down and thoroughly gone through. In doing so we found out the cam gears did not match, which explained what had caused overheating problems prior to my purchasing of it.


All the aftermarket parts were removed and disposed of. Anything not Genuine Harley Davidson or an original OEM part would be closely examined. The integrity of this project had to be of the highest priority.

Once the aftermarket parts were scrapped and removed the real work was just starting. Finding original OEM parts to replace them was no easy task. Especially since they were no longer stocked or could be found any longer at your local Harley Davidson Dealerships. Plus they hadn’t been in more than two decades.

Many of these items had been discontinued decades ago. The accuracy and verifiable of each part could not be questioned. This had to be an absolute authentic and as close to original as each piece was painstakingly given the old school treatment. This chunk of coal would have to be a diamond on its own merit.
In 1976 Harleys didn’t come with chrome. In fact the only chrome that was ever added usually was done while the engine was being rebuilt during the off season
Traditionally many who valued their machines would show their pride when it came time for repairs or upgrades. Depending on finances because not everyone could afford the repair and to chrome their bikes at the same time. Points covers, rocker boxes, primary covers even transmission ends along with anything else made out of aluminum were either chromed or massive amounts of time and energy were spent on cleaning polishing, and buffing each piece into a mirror like luster. Hours of elbow grease surprisingly made a real noticeable distinction.


1976 was also the last year for the FLH to use the factory “Pogo Stick” seating. As well as the last year for the “Buddy Seat”. The following year Harley started using frame mounted seats and many would change theirs over to a more comfortable and lower mounted aftermarket seats, which by then were becoming the norm.

For instance the Rear Fender were “hedged” Making it possible along with a optional Center stand, which this bike had, that allowed the rear wheel to be taken off without a jack and or without lifting it over the rear
During its restoration there were a few items that remained on the motorcycle even though they do not belong. Someone who owned it previously had drilled holes through the rear turn signal bracket, and had added chrome Bullets to decorate it. This was all the rage “back in the day” of course since chrome parts were almost unheard of..
In keeping with its Original and or Stock status, every detail with this bike was kept to its correct time period as is humanly possible.
With the lack of a suitable OEM rear turn signal bracket I believed it was better to fill the holes of the missing bullets rather than replacing it with a chromed aftermarket one. To keep with the original/stock theme, it seemed that with the bike being in Black and having bullets why not set it up to resemble a police bike.

Often what make a big difference with any motorcycle are its accessories. However in 1976 you didn’t have a choice of genuine parts or accessories from the factory. Instead many would “RAT” out there motorcycles. Whenever anything broke or needed replacing on their motorcycle they would use alternate or aftermarket parts.
AMF made motorcycles, everyone else made the aftermarket parts and upgrades.
It was like an “unspoken rule” that the company made the motorcycles and everyone else made the improvements for it. If you wanted chrome chances were you went with purchasing a cheaply made part that was already chrome plated. The quality might have been slightly better than Harleys at the time but that started the battle cry “Chrome won’t get you home”.
One of the accessories that did come with the Bi Centennial was the medallions of the eagle and ribbon with Made In the USA. These were the first of what has later to become a very successful Harley Davidson Parts & Accessory market. It combined Eagle Iron which was later phased over into the Genuine Harley Davidson Parts and combine it with the performance and racing parts of its Screaming Eagle line.


It is not the most beautiful bike but what it lacks in looks it more than makes up for in its own significance .for being noteworthy. It remains an Icon. The last in a long line and a prime example of the way things were done.
The stereotypes that were earned as well as all the finger pointing and divisions within the ranks have eased over time. But the fact remains that in the case of the Bi Centennial like that of all things AMERICAN or dealing with Pride have faded and are nearly extinct from the way it was. Sometimes the things like that of importance slipped between the cracks and are forgotten forever.
Being rebellious and defiant the Bi-Centennial might be a thorn in the side of Harley Davidson but I believe it should also be used as a reminder and I am a stickler for details. This Bi-Centennial represents all that went on before and has since been changed. I also believe the Bi-Centennial never received the respect nor the esteem that it properly deserves.

1976 Harley Davidson Bi-Centennial FOR SALE

I have been fortunate to have owned this Bi Centennial since 1997. However all good things must come to an end.
















In the time I have owned it I have taken it from a rough and crude form and restored it to a more honorable and relyable existance.  Doing old school things like polishing and buffing by hand the aluimum parts like these control levers.






However when it come to engine work, I turned that
over to Butch Clayton, of Clayton Performance. Shown here working on it.




The entire engine was gone over, and a fresh top end was done.











The bike has less than 500 mile on its rebuild, and has less than 31,000 original miles. The only changes being unleaded valves added.





There are many other spare parts that go with the bike, Including another set of 76 gas tanks.










Those interested in owning a truely rare 1976 ShovelHead Harley Davidson can contact me by phone.

This maybe the last all original and non-aftermarketed shovelhead from this area, and the only FLH Bi-Centennial known to be FOR SALE in existance.





Stix
314 304 3709
Cedar Hill, Missouri 63016

The Annual First Ride

(by Stix Douglas)

I could see my breath as I took my first few steps outside, heading towards the polebarn. At least the wind was calm were my thoughts, as I took a firm grasp of the hand-grips.  I squeezed the front brake lever and threw my leg over to mount the old Harley. Slowly bending down to turning on the petcock and pulled on the choke before reaching to flip the switch on the ignition. Pausing for a moment before touching the starter button.

It is at that very instant, that very moment that I was caught in a deja' vu'.

I had been doing this for so many years now and yet there were so few others that would even know today's importance and even fewer to be following in my footsteps.

This was more than just a tradition. The anticipation and anxieties had been building for months as I had waited savoring the moment to take this first all-important ride. It wasn't just another trip down to the local grocery store. Nope, it was something more, much more significant.
Today would be that special day when I would take my motorcycle out for its annual non-sanctioned event known as the First Ride of the Year.

Why would that be so special? You might ask? What is it that makes experienced and traditional bikers solemn and refer to it as the most important ride of the year with such a reverence? It’s because they know the importance of it and know it’s a ritual.

Just then my thumb pressed the starter button. The engine roars to life. Thunder echoed inside the metal building. But it was like music to my ears as I sat there enjoying the sound for a moment. Quickly giving the throttle another twist, my mind lost all consciences of any problems as my mind cleared of other thoughts.

After carefully backing the bike out of the building and waiting a few minutes I pushed the choke back in allowing the engine to idled down into its putting mode. The low RPM lobbing was pleasant. It was the sound that once you heard it you knew it was the work of a finely tuned machine.


Releasing the grips, I pulled my sunglasses out of  my leather coat, and put them on. The skies were clear and it was bright and sunny, making for a beautiful day for this years first ride..

Pulling out from my gravel drive onto the highway.  I enjoyed twisting the throttle a little further to feel the acceleration.  The power and wind thrust me backwards into the seat. I couldn't help it as my face nearly froze with a smile.  I enjoyed running the bike through its gears, taking full advantage of it.

Braving the elements for a ride is very refreshing and exhilarating. I even find it very rewarding at times. Plus it does wonders for my outlook as well as for my own mental sanity, and well-being.

Nowadays organized rides like Polar Bear Runs seem to have taken precedence from some of the impact and previous years popularity by confusing many. But those events have different reasons for their existence then the underlying principle for this annual ride.

I have always participated in the traditions that I have grown up with especially those concerning "old school and riding".   I am reminded why so many motorcyclists are out riding so early in the year usually without the best of riding conditions.


Many years ago I vaguely remember a event that took place on a very cold and snowing day, long before I had even started riding. I overheard a wise crack made from a non-riding store clerk to a biker who had just come in from riding in the freezing cold. Sarcastically he asked him how he enjoyed his ride. The biker upstaged him by his response as he paused for a moment, gathered his composure, and very calmly answered:” Well… I didn't have to take out my tool kit so I guess that’s a good thing.”  The Biker then cracked a crooked smile, having said all that needed to be.

Moments like that were what got me to want to ride. You would just have had to of been there to have understood the impact and what it meant. That kind of passion for riding any day, whether it was cold or not was better than to not have rode any at all.

The majority of new two wheeled riding enthusiasts won’t have any idea what this ride is, or what it is all about. Many of them will never experienced it. Instead they continue to keep their bikes in storage, hibernating. But not me, I enjoy an occasional winter ride even if it’s only for a few miles.

Rolling on down the highway as I was making my way to the store I began thinking of all the others who would NOT be so lucky. Those that wait miss out on the thrill.

Those who are serious about motorcycling as I am know that it’s NOT about what brand or whatever make or model you have. It’s NOT the distance you ride that day or how cold it is, or even if you ride by yourself or with a group of others.
It is that first ride of the year that gives everyone the opportunity to start their bikes up and at least check off some of their maintenance concerns.
What it IS about is the connection between you and your bike. Its  the time to take notes and to arrange what it might need.  It is the time to plan ahead . Perhaps order parts and to take care of what may have been overlooked or that's been put off to have worked on.

Leaving the store after putting the groceries in the saddlebag I began thinking to myself…. Its not superstition to know your machine well enough to feel you are one with it. Your life and others depend on it. It’s a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly.

I enjoyed leaning into the turns but I was also saddened as I slowly pulled back into my driveway. I might have to wait a long time before there would be any decent warmer weather for a longer ride.

Pulling the motorcycle carefully back into it's resting place, I flipped out its side-stand, while quickly running through its shutdown procedure before stepping off it. After removing the groceries from the saddlebags I assessed the ride.

The first ride after the New Year is always magical if not memorable. The satisfaction of getting out there riding this early in the year made me feel as if there is a lot of hope and optimism for an even longer riding season.

“I had really enjoyed my ride and I knew I will have a tremendous year ahead of me.” I can’t remember when that it had gone any better. I was elated by the facts, my riding skills were still intact, and I was feeling even more confident, looking forward to the challenges of the New Year. .But more importantly, I will not have to worry about getting out a tool bag when the "Prime Riding Season"  comes, because my motorcycle will be ready to ride.

Best of luck to all of you on your, “Years First Ride”. According to mine, I’ll be out on the road trouble free this year, will you?

Phoenix, Arizonia

Going Down the Highway.....